I keep hearing the NDIS is meant to be needs based, not diagnosis based, however it appears for adults this is not the case?
Anyone aged 6 years and older will need to provide a formal diagnosis of their disability as part of the access requirements to become an NDIS participant. However, once you are accepted into the Scheme your NDIS package will be based on your individual needs.
Children aged 0-6 years who have a developmental delay or disability can access Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) to develop the skills they need early on. Access to ECEI does not require a diagnosis to receive support. However, when your child reaches 7 years old they will be re-assessed to either move to the NDIS (where a formal diagnosis is required), or transitioned to other government support services (find out more about mainstream services in this factsheet).
The NDIS is designed to support 460,000 Australians with permanent and significant disability, and every single person has different needs and goals. Each package will always look different and may even include a mix of NDIS and support from other government services. Click here to read more in the About the NDIS factsheet.